New Chrome extension aims to protect Google passwords, foil phishers

Hackers often gain access to accounts by stealing password through nefarious means. The new Password Alert Chrome browser extension helps deter bad guys by discouraging people from reusing their Google passwords on other sites and detecting phishing attacks.

Google today released a new extension for its Chrome browser that aims to improve Google account security for consumers and enterprise customers. The Password Alert extension discourages people from reusing their Google passwords on other sites and notifies them of potential phishing attacks. In other words, Google wants to help you help yourself.

The majority of security intrusions and hacks occur when outside groups or individuals wrongfully access passwords, according to Eran Feigenbaum, director of security at Google Apps for Work.

How Password Alert for Chrome enhances online security

The free, open source Password Alert Chrome extension can be installed by individuals or deployed by admins, who can then choose to receive alerts whenever it detects potential problems. Password Alert has been used internally at Google for years, and it automatically warns users if they type their Google passwords into non-Google sites, then encourages them to use unique passwords.

Google

The extension will "remember a partial fingerprint version of your Google password" and notify you when you are at risk of being "phished." Nearly two percent of all messages sent to Gmail accounts are designed to trick you into giving up your passwords, and the most effective phishing attacks can succeed as often as 45 percent of the time, according to Google.

CIO.com Senior Writer Matt Kapko specializes in the convergence of social media, mobility, digital marketing and technology. He enjoys traveling and hitting the road with his wife, going to shows, rooting for the 49ers, gardening and reading.